The EBCS coaching pathway — from your first qualification to becoming a nationally recognised Level 3 Advanced Coach.
Each level builds on the last, providing progressively deeper knowledge and broader coaching capability. All levels require active EBCS membership, current DBS, and safeguarding certification.
The starting point for anyone new to coaching lawn bowls. Level 1 introduces the core principles of safe, effective coaching and equips you to assist senior coaches with groups of players at club level.
What you'll cover: The role of the coach, communication skills, basic skill delivery, safety and duty of care, the Laws of the Sport relevant to coaching.
Assessment: Practical observation by an EBCS-accredited assessor. Written assignment on coaching principles.
A standalone coaching qualification. Level 2 coaches can plan and deliver complete coaching sessions independently, working with players at club and county level. This is the most common qualification held by active EBCS members.
What you'll cover: Session planning and design; delivery analysis with and without video; technique development; reading the head; coaching across different age groups and abilities; group management; feedback and questioning skills.
Assessment: Practical coaching session observed by an EBCS assessor. Written case study and reflective log.
The highest EBCS coaching award. Level 3 coaches work at the highest level of performance — county squads, representative teams, and high-performance development programmes. Many Level 3 coaches also mentor other coaches.
What you'll cover: High-performance coaching methodology, sport science applications, long-term athlete development, coaching philosophy, mentoring and developing other coaches, working with county and national selectors.
Assessment: Extended practical portfolio. Presentation to EBCS panel. Evidence-based competency log.
A Trainer qualification can be held alongside any coaching level (e.g. Level 2 + Trainer). Trainers are accredited by EBCS to deliver coaching courses on our behalf — they are the people who guide new coaches through their Level 1, 2, or 3 training programmes.
Trainer status is assigned by the EBCS Coaching Directors. Trainers receive access to level-specific coaching manuals through a secure portal, using a one-time access code issued by EBCS, and are supported throughout the course delivery process.
Start with the Level 1 qualification information on this page, then read the terms and conditions for becoming a coach — including the costs involved and any rink fees payable to your club.
Complete the application form and pay the £80 application fee. The fee is non-refundable and is separate from EBCS annual membership. Your application goes straight to EBCS for processing.
EBCS assigns you a qualified Trainer, who receives the course manuals and gets in touch with you directly to arrange your coaching.
Work through the course with your Trainer, in person. When your coaching is complete, your Trainer lets EBCS know.
EBCS assigns an independent Assessor, who contacts you and your Trainer to arrange your assessment.
Your Assessor evaluates your competence and sends the result to EBCS. If you are not successful, EBCS talks it through with your Assessor and Trainer and agrees the next steps with you — you do not pay the application fee again.
On passing, you register on this website as an EBCS coach — your first access to the members' area and its resources. Once EBCS has confirmed your registration, your certificate is emailed to you.
Join EBCS to access courses, resources, and a community of coaches across England.
